What software licenses must Embassy Suites franchisees purchase through HSS's enterprise agreements?
Embassy_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must also purchase certain software licenses such as Windows Server operating systems and related client access licenses, database applications, and virus detection and removal tools. Where applicable, these licenses must be purchased through existing enterprise agreements HSS has in place with vendors such as Microsoft. HSS will invoice the Hotel for such purchases. You may purchase other software not covered by enterprise agreements from other third-party suppliers. Costs of these licenses may vary based on the number of users or computers at your Hotel and other factors.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 53–67)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Embassy Suites's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase specific software licenses through HSS's existing enterprise agreements with vendors like Microsoft. These mandatory licenses include Windows Server operating systems, related client access licenses, database applications, and virus detection and removal tools. HSS will invoice the Embassy Suites hotel for these software purchases.
Embassy Suites franchisees have the option to acquire other software not covered by these enterprise agreements from different third-party suppliers. The costs for the required licenses may fluctuate, depending on factors such as the number of users or computers at the hotel.
Prospective franchisees should consider these software costs as part of their initial investment and ongoing operational expenses. It is important to clarify with HSS the exact software requirements and associated costs to budget accurately. Understanding the scope of required software and the flexibility to choose third-party suppliers for other software needs can help franchisees manage their technology expenses effectively.